We're not a minority. We're a movement.
Much of this data is self-reported and often only includes disabilities recognized by federal or state agencies. The actual count of disabled Michiganders is likely much higher. Our work includes a call for better data collection, state and citywide. However, here's what we know for sure: we are at least a third of the population. It's time we act like it.
How We Build Power
Power is the ability to make decisions on how resources are spent – resources like tax dollars, labor, and time. When disabled people are in charge of making these decisions, we make decisions that benefit everyone: all bodies, all minds, across all seasons of life. Disabled leadership is the path towards a fully inclusive society. Here's how that comes to life at DDP:
From Detroit City Council to state legislature, we advocate and win. We mobilize residents to get our demands met.
We work with other institutions, business, universities, and more to help them develop more accessible work spaces.
We prioritize rest, sustainability, and care justice in all we do. We're creating a movement that leaves no one behind.
We offer free and recurring outlets for expression and connection through art and dance.
Our staff and Members represent the disability community across local and statewide initiatives to bring about justice.
We're on the ground each election day ensuring all our polling sites are compliant with ADA requirements.
Our Mission
When We Organize, We Win
In 2025 alone, DDP members and supporters secured:
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$23M for DDOT accessibility improvements – more shelters, benches, safer bus stops, and a $6/hour wage increase for drivers
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$2M for Housing Trust Fund – expanding affordable and accessible housing
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$1.4M in recurring annual funding for Office of Disability Affairs
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$300K for home accessibility modifications in District 3
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$50K for paratransit study, aiming for a better transit service
Detroit Disability Power in the news:
